Sunday, December 10, 2017

Play Review: Grease Comes to Life at Starlight

Grease has officially began its show run in Kansas City and Starlight Theatre pulled out all of the stops for this amazing Musical. If you’ve seen the original film, witnessing it live will make you fall in love all over again. The outstanding cast also features one of UMKC’s very own, J.P. O’Donnell.
O’Donnell is a part of Starlight’s Blue star program which recognizes achievement and excellence in musical theatre among Kansas City area high school students.
He is currently a freshman within the conservatory and couldn’t wait to perform opening night. “I’m so excited, I’ve never performed in front of 8,000 people so that’s going to be interesting. I’m really excited for the energy, it’s just an entirely different feeling,” stated O’Donnell. That energy was definitely there on opening night as Starlight was filled with Grease lovers swaying and clapping throughout the entire show.
Grease will be running from October. 8- 14th so if you haven’t caught it already you still have time.
The original Grease aired in 1978 and Starlight’s rendition didn’t disappoint. The original film showed the ins and outs of being a high school student, from your first love, heartbreak, choosing a career path and more.
Starlight took all of the best moments of the original and brought them to life. The iconic dance off scene during the high school dance had audience members twisting and turning in their seats. Each of the characters were matched to a tee and the singing along with the choreography was impeccable. After seeing the production, you’ll want to run home and watch the original over and over again. You can find clips of the musical at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15c1fHyR7ho.
The 2 and a half hour production featured popular hit songs including, “Look At Me, I’m Sandra Dee”, “Hopelessly Devoted”, “You’re the One that I want” and many more. Whether you need a date night or outing with the entire family, Grease is the show for all. There were even children in the audience with their black sunglasses on and poodle skirts, imitating the main characters Sandy Dumbrowksi and Danny Zuko.
O’Donnell couldn’t help but to take notes from his experience with preparing for Grease. “Production value, I wasn’t expecting the stage set up to be as crazy as it was. The talent was crazy, everyone’s singing is incredible, it blows you away,” stated O’Donnell.
As an audience member you couldn’t help but notice the immaculate stage set up, tremendous performers, and costumes that truly embodied the classic.
Also, Starlight offers students with a valid student ID half off on tickets the day of the show. That means students can see Grease for as little as 20 dollars. You can’t really beat that.
For more information please visit www.kcstarlight.com or call   (816) 363-7827



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